Aggies BlitZ: What to watch tonight vs. Utah State

COLLEGE STATION — Below are things to keep an eye on tonight when Texas A&M plays host to Utah State — also tagged the Aggies. If you’re not able to be in Kyle Field, I’ll keep an eye out for you with a live blog:

• Left tackle. The key position is still open for a taker. Senior Mike Shumard, who started at left guard in A&M’s 41-6 season-opening victory over New Mexico, has been working some at left tackle in practice. But coach Mike Sherman said sophomore Danny Baker is still the man at the position. Expect to see freshman Rhontae Scales thrown into the mix — maybe as early as tonight.

•Utah State quarterback. Sherman said perhaps Diondre Borel is the best runner in the Western Athletic Conference, regardless of position. He’s one of only seven quarterbacks nationally to lead his team in both running and passing last season. Sherman said Borel has some similarities to Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin, only he’s not as big.

• Jack. Borel’s worst nightmare tonight might be A&M pass-rusher Von Miller, who had three sacks in the opener. Sherman believes Miller, the defense’s most explosive player who plays a hybrid position dubbed the “jack,” is just scratching the surface of his potential.

• Quarterback/Receiver. Backup quarterback Ryan Tannehill played plenty at receiver two weeks ago. Expect more of the same tonight, although he might earn some time in relief of Jerrod Johnson, as well.

• Offensive urgency. New Mexico wasn’t prepared for A&M’s no-huddle offense. Utah State will be. Will A&M get anywhere near its 606 yards racked up against the Lobos?

• Punter. Sherman said the job is still wide open between sophomore Ken Wood and freshman Ryan Epperson. Wood got the nod in the opener, but Sherman wasn’t entirely pleased with hang time and kick angles.

• Third downs. Utah State was 0 for 12 on third-down attempts in a 35-17 loss to Utah — meaning it’s still aiming for its first third-down conversion of the season.

• The sky. The National Weather Service forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies with temperatures in the 70s. Should be a pleasant night at Kyle.

• The Hit II. Former linebacker Quentin Coryatt will be in attendance tonight after being inducted into the A&M athletics hall of fame on Friday night. Sherman has said it’s time for the Aggies to come up with a defensive highlight beyond Coryatt’s “The Hit.” I attended Friday night’s banquet and will blog about it on Monday morning.